New Zealand have left star flanker Richie McCaw out of their starting line-up for Saturday's clash with Wales at the Millennium Stadium.

McCaw, rated as the best forward in world rugby, will start as a replacement after coach Graham Henry handed Taranaki openside Chris Masoe his first cap.

Wellington prop Neemia Tialata is the other uncapped player in the All Blacks line-up, while Angus Macdonald will make his debut if he comes off the bench.

But Wales will still have to cope with a New Zealand side that boasts star performers like skipper Tana Umaga, wing Joe Rokocoko, fly-half Dan Carter, lock Chris Jack and flanker Jerry Collins.

'This side was selected before we left, and they have been training together for quite some time, which has given us a bit of a kick-start,' said Henry. 'To develop depth, you have to put new players in the arena.

'They will be stronger for the experience and so will the team.

'It is not about devaluing the silver fern.

'These guys are good enough, and you cannot expect to go through a Grand Slam tour and play the same team week-in, week-out.'

Wales assistant coach Scott Johnson has warned Wales about the new faces in the New Zealand team.

'They have got their own rules and regulations in camp and have clearly stated that they want all their players to play in a Test match,' said Johnson.

'They will be looking at the bigger picture.

'Anybody who plays for the All Blacks is a talent. I am sure Masoe will be class.

'We have not seen a lot of him, just what we have got of the NPC.

'We have done a little bit of research on the lad and he's got talent.'